[2025 Updated] How to Fix iPhone 15/16 Stuck in Recovery Mode?

When your iPhone 16 enters recovery mode and cannot exit it properly, it can be quite frustrating. Recovery mode is typically used to fix system issues when the device is facing major problems. However, if the device is stuck on the recovery mode screen and cannot boot normally, it can affect its usability. So, why is the iPhone stuck in recovery mode, and how to get out of recovery mode? This article will provide a detailed explanation of the possible causes and solutions.

Part 1. Why Is My Phone Stuck in Recovery Mode?

iPhone 16 getting stuck in recovery mode is usually caused by the following reasons:

• iOS update failure: Interruptions during the iOS system update, such as network issues, low battery, or file corruption, can cause the device to enter recovery mode and fail to boot normally.
• Jailbreak failure: Some users attempt to jailbreak their iPhones for more customization options. However, if there are issues during the jailbreak process, the iPhone may get stuck in recovery mode.
• Hardware issues: In addition to software problems, hardware failures (such as a damaged battery or internal component issues) can also cause the iPhone to enter recovery mode and be unable to exit.

Part 2. How to Get iPhone Out of Recovery Loop

After we know the reasons for iPhone 16 stuck in restore mode, here are some ways you can try to exit recovery mode.

Way 1. How to Get iPhone Out of Recovery Mode by Force Restart the iPhone

Restarting your iPhone 16 may help you exit the recovery mode without losing data. Since your iPhone restore screen is frozen, you are not able to use the normal restarting way. Here, we will show you how to force restart your iPhone 16 by pressing the buttons. The specific steps differ according to the iPhone model.

For iPhone 8 and later models:

• Press and release the "Volume Up" button.
• Press and release the "Volume Down" button.
• Press and hold the "Power" button until you see the Apple logo.

For iPhone 7:

• Press and hold the "Power" button and the "Volume Down" buttons at the same time.
• Release both buttons when your iPhone restarts.

For iPhone 6s and older models:

• Press and hold the "Power" button and the "Home" button simultaneously.
• Keep pressing the buttons until your iPhone restarts.

Way 2. How to Exit Recovery Mode Using iTunes/Finder

To resolve a phone stuck in recovery mode, you can also use iTunes or Finder, depending on your computer's operating system. Note that this process may erase all the contents on your iPhone 16. You can restore a previous backup of iCloud or iTunes to get back data. (How to restore from iCloud backup without reset?)

Here's how to get iPhone out of recovery mode using iTunes:

Step 1. Connect your iPhone 16 to your computer and open Finder or iTunes.

Step 2. When iTunes or Finder detects that your iPhone 16 needs an update or restoration, you'll see an alert.

Step 3. Click "Restore iPhone" to begin the restoration process.

Step 4. The restoration may take some time, so please be patient as your iPhone 16 returns to factory settings.

Way 3. How to Bypass Recovery Mode on iPhone Using DFU Mode

If the iPhone 16 is locked in recovery mode and the above methods won't work, you can consider choosing DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode to restore. This is the deepest type of system restore for iPhone. When the iPhone is in this mode, it cannot load iOS or the bootloader, but iTunes can detect it. Please note that DFU mode recovery will cause data loss. And if the operation is not correct, it will cause more serious damage to the phone.

Here is how to exit recovery mode using DFU mode:

Step 1. Connect your iPhone 16 to the computer using the USB that comes with your device. Open iTunes or Finder on your computer.

Step 2. Put your iPhone into DFU mode. Please follow the instructions according to your iPhone model.

iPhone 8 and later models:

• Quickly press the "Volume Up" button, quickly press the "Volume Down" button, then press and hold the "Side" button until the screen goes black.
• Next, hold the "Side" button and the "Volume Down" button together for 5 seconds, then release the "Side" button while continuing to hold the "Volume Down" button until iTunes detects the device.

iPhone 7/7 Plus:

• Press and hold the "Volume Down" button and the "Power" button for 8 seconds, then release the "Power" button while continuing to hold the "Volume Down" button until iTunes detects the device.

iPhone 6s and earlier models:

• Press and hold the "Home" button and the "Power" button for 8 seconds, then release the "Power" button while continuing to hold the "Home" button until iTunes detects the device.

Step 3. Once in DFU mode, iTunes will prompt you to restore the device. Just follow the instructions provided.

Way 4. How to Fix iPhone Recovery Mode Loop Without Data Loss

If the iPhone won't restore in recovery mode, you can fix the problem with a powerful third-party software called iOS System Recovery. This software is designed to fix various iOS issues and various iTunes errors. It is very easy to use. With this software, you can bypass recovery mode on iPhone without data loss easily.

Why Recommend iOS System Recovery?

• Fix various iOS issues, such as iPhone blue/white/black screen of death, stuck on DFU/recovery/safe/headphone mode, iTunes error 3194, and more.
• Upgrade and downgrade the iOS version for free.
• Choose between two repair modes: Standard Mode and Advanced Mode.
• Enjoy a high success rate with no data loss.
• Compatible with most iPhone models and iOS versions, including the latest iPhone 16 series and iOS 18.

Free Download for PC

 

Free Download for Mac

Here is how to fix an iPhone stuck in a recovery mode loop using iOS System Recovery:

Way 5. How to Fix iPhone Stuck in Recovery Mode by Contact Apple Support

If the problem persists after trying all the solutions above, the culprit may be damaged hardware. In this case, you can contact Apple Support to look for a solution. You can start a chat to talk to Apple support. You can also find a local Apple-authorized service provider or make an appointment at the Genius bar to have your device fully checked.

The Bottom Line

In most cases, the iPhone stuck in recovery mode is caused by software issues like iOS update failure. You can follow the above solutions to bring the iPhone back to normal. And the most recommended solution is to use iOS System Recovery. It allows you to fix the issue without losing data, and it is very simple to operate.

Related Articles:

5 Useful Ways to Fix iPhone Stuck in Recovery Mode After iOS 17/18 Update

iPhone Stuck in DFU Mode? 3 Ways to Fix without Data Lost

iPhone Stuck on Restore Screen? 6 Easy Methods Here

iPhone Stuck in Boot Loop? How to Fix Boot Loop on iPhone in Ten Methods?